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If you have been sidelined by a job-related accident or medical condition, protect yourself in case you decide to file a workers’ comp claim or personal injury claim. You may wonder: what to do after a workplace injury in North Carolina? It is crucial to tell your company, submit a claim, and contact an NC lawyer to discuss your employee rights.
Important U.S. Accident Information
It is important to know about workplace accidents across the United States. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that 5,070 workplace deaths occurred across the country in 2024 alone. Closer to home in the Tar Heel State, workplace risks are also a serious concern. During that year, our state reported 196 job-related fatalities.
Our state data reflects a rate of 2.2 non-fatal injury and illness cases for every 100 workers employed in private industry full-time jobs in a recent year. This can be compared to a national average of 2.7 for every 100 workers.
The high frequency of these accidents and illnesses highlights the importance of consulting with a lawyer if you have been injured at work. When you meet with an experienced local attorney, they can help discuss the value of your case and your specific recovery.
After an illness or accident at work, you can consider:
- North Carolina Workers’ Compensation benefits. Workers’ comp is a no-fault insurance system. It is intended to provide financial support no matter who caused the employee’s accident. Benefits include medical costs, vocational rehab, and partial wage replacement. Most NC employers are required to carry workers’ comp. They must report any qualifying injury or illness to the North Carolina Industrial Commission within five days of learning about an incident.
- A personal injury claim. While you usually cannot file a claim against your employer for a workplace injury, you can explore a civil personal injury claim if someone else was responsible for your accident. Consider discussing your unique situation with an attorney who is familiar with Raleigh workplace accidents. They can investigate liability and file your claim.
A North Carolina workers’ compensation attorney can help explain your rights and discuss potential options for you and your family. They can build a strategy that supports your full recovery.
How to Protect Yourself After a Workplace Injury in Raleigh, North Carolina
It is important that you act quickly after a workplace injury or illness. To protect your employee rights, you should notify your employer in writing immediately. That way, you can formally start your claim. You should submit NCIC Form 18 to the North Carolina Industrial Commission.
An attorney can help prepare this form. Also, they can confirm its accuracy and completeness. Many people make costly mistakes with this form. Once your claim is filed, confirm that you received medical treatment from a provider approved by your employer.
The workers’ compensation process is notoriously complicated. Even a small administrative error can lead to a loss of benefits. Also, many employers dispute valid claims.
If you need assistance navigating your initial filing or appealing a claim denial, call an experienced local lawyer familiar with workers’ comp claims. They can provide clarity for your specific circumstances. Hire a workers’ compensation lawyer for assistance during the workers’ comp process.
FAQs
What Steps Should I Take in Order to Receive Workers’ Compensation Benefits in North Carolina?
To receive workers’ compensation benefits in North Carolina, you must notify your employer of your injury or illness as soon as possible. Following notification, receive treatment from a medical provider approved by your employer. File your claim with the North Carolina Industrial Commission (NCIC) within two years of the incident. Also, acting early helps with a smooth claims process.
Follow your physician’s treatment plan. Additionally, consult with a workers’ compensation attorney about your available options.
Should I Expect to Hear From My Workers’ Compensation Attorney Often?
While all attorney communication styles are different, you should expect pretty consistent updates from your North Carolina workers’ compensation lawyer. Your attorney has a professional responsibility to keep you informed about your claim status. They should explain any significant developments. Your lawyer should respond to your questions and concerns in a timely manner.
What Amount Can I Expect for My Workplace Accident or Illness?
With a workplace accident or illness, you should expect to recover compensation through your workers’ compensation benefits. However, if you do not receive enough to cover your bills or if a third party caused your injuries, you may want to consider filing a civil legal claim. In the event of a fatality, call a lawyer about pursuing a wrongful death claim.
Do I Have to Hire a Lawyer for a Workers’ Comp Claim in North Carolina?
No, you can file a workers’ compensation claim on your own in North Carolina. However, many people find the process complicated and overwhelming, so they hire a lawyer. If you hire an attorney, they can help you file your paperwork and improve your chances of receiving benefits. A lawyer can investigate your injury or illness to build a strong case and pursue the benefits you deserve.
Hire a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Serving North Carolina: Contact the Law Office of Jacob Goad
At the Law Office of Jacob Goad, we provide the legal advice you need during a difficult time. I am a dedicated lawyer who can thoroughly investigate your workplace accident or illness. I can assist with the complicated process required to file for North Carolina workers’ compensation on your behalf. I offer comprehensive support for my workers’ comp clients in the area, and for years, locals have counted on my firm. Your employer cannot ignore your needs after an accident.
When you partner with the Law Office of Jacob Goad, you will receive personal attention directly from your lawyer. I’m a fluent Spanish speaker who is dedicated to protecting your rights. I won’t hesitate to go to court to protect your interests when necessary.
Contact us for your initial consultation with a dedicated North Carolina workers’ comp lawyer. Combined with strict statute of limitations, the margin for error is increasingly small. If you have experienced a personal injury in North Carolina, you need to hire a personal injury lawyer at the Law Office of Jacob Goad, so contact us as soon as possible.
